The AANA developed and implemented a certification program in 1945 and instituted a recertification program in 1978. It established a mechanism for accreditation of nurse anesthesia educational programs in 1952, which has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Education since 1955. In 1975, the AANA was a leader among professional organizations in the United States by forming autonomous multidisciplinary councils with public representation for performing the profession's certification, accreditation, and public interest functions. Today, the CRNA credential is well recognized as an indicator of quality and competence.

The American Society of Anesthesiologists is an educational research and scientific association of physicians organized to raise and maintain the standards of the medical practice of anesthesiology and improve the care of the patient.

SOCCA's mission is dedicated to the education of anesthesiologists in the care of critically ill patients and to foster the knowledge and practice of critical care medicine by anesthesiologists. This will be accomplished through education, advocacy and community.

SCATA exists to promote research into the use of computing and technology in anaesthesia, the science related thereto, and to disseminate the useful results of such research. In addition, SCATA aims to promote and facilitate education and training in the areas of health IT and health information management.

Every day, anesthesiologists provide life-saving care when patients need it most. They keep patients stable and safe through the administration of anesthesia and monitor vital signs and body functions. These physicians have the skills and training needed to intervene in case of an emergency during surgery.